Aug 06, 2012

(Phys.org) -- Feeding a stray dog is a kind gesture -- and one that may generate a new best friend.

Adding a dog to your home should not, however, be a spur-of-the-moment decision, said Susan Nelson, a veterinarian and clinical associate professor in the Pet Health Center at Kansas State University's Veterinary Health Center.

"Do your homework first," Nelson said.

A large breed, such as a Great Dane, or medium-to-large breed, such as an active Labrador retriever, will not typically be a good match for an owner with a small home or apartment. A border collie might seem a better size and choice, but it's a breed that requires a lot of physical activity and intellectual stimulation.

Want a four-legged pal to run with? Consider a medium-to-large dog that will thrive on physical activity, rather than a basset hound, known for its slow and steady pace, Nelson said.

To learn more about a specific breed and its needs, Nelson recommended talking to a veterinarian and searching the Internet or books for more information.

Nelson said the size, type and location of the pet owner's dwelling should be considered, as well as whether there is a yard -- perhaps fenced -- or other area available to exercise a dog regularly.

Inviting a dog into your home also involves a financial commitment, she said.

Deciding who will be the primary caregiver for the dog and how responsibilities can be shared within the family or with roommates is recommended, said Nelson, who also advised considering the ages and life stages of members of the household.

A small dog might seem a good choice for an older adult, but a very small dog might be a tripping hazard. Timing also can be an issue, as a family with a new baby may want to wait until they have more time to dedicate to the dog.

Nelson said doing the homework first may avoid the need to put the dog up for adoption later because it was not a good fit for the family or the family's situation.

People and their dogs both need physical activity to fight obesity, and there are many exercises that owner and pet can do together that can improve their health and their relationship, according to a Kansas State University ...

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User comments : 1

Great article!! When I was pregnant with my first child, Harry, I used a book called Tell Your Dog You're Pregnant: An essential guide for dog owners who are expecting a baby. It was really helpful and came with a CD of sounds. Max (my fur child!) took some time to get used to the sounds but the book helped on how to do it. Maybe that will help someone else on choosing the right time.

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